Photo: Courtesy of MSU Athletics
EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State University is grieving the sudden passing of Dan Sturges, the Spartans’ director of hockey operations and a longtime member of the MSU hockey family. News of his unexpected death on Monday morning has left the program and broader community stunned. Head coach Adam Nightingale described Sturges as not only a trusted colleague, but a devoted husband and father whose presence shaped the team well beyond the rink. His commitment to MSU hockey, both as a former player and later as a staff member, left an imprint that those around him say will endure for years.
Athletic Director J Batt echoed that sentiment, emphasizing Sturges’ deep care for the athletes and staff he worked alongside every day. Known for building genuine relationships and fostering a supportive environment, Sturges’ loss has sent shock waves through the athletic department.
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(CONTINUED) Sturges’ dedication to Michigan State stretched far beyond his job title. A former Spartan forward from 2005 to 2009 and a member of the 2007 national championship team, he poured his energy into both on-ice success and off-ice impact. His leadership in Student-Athlete Support Services helped create meaningful community programs, including the Shoot for a Cure initiative he co-founded.
Before returning to East Lansing in 2019, Sturges expanded his coaching footprint at the University of Colorado, rising from ACHA Division II head coach to the leader of the ACHA Division I program. His work there earned him Big Mountain Hockey Conference Coach of the Year honors in 2018 and helped guide the team to a league playoff championship. Even while coaching at Colorado, he continued shaping young athletes as an assistant at Valor Christian High School under respected coach George Gwozdecky.
